Roof lanterns in Smethwick: what is involved?
For Smethwick homes and buildings we offer roof lanterns: hipped glass lanterns that lift the ceiling of orangeries and extensions. We measure first, specify to the opening and confirm any planning or building-control points before quoting.
Midlands housing is a mix of Victorian terraces, inter-war semis and newer estates, and rear kitchen extensions with flat rooflights are a common upgrade. Roof lanterns suit rooms that need height as well as light.
We work across the West Midlands, including Smethwick, and in neighbouring towns such as West Bromwich and Birmingham. Access, parking and how the glass reaches the roof are all checked at the survey.
Specification options
- Internal and external colours
- Rectangular, square or bespoke sizes
- Opening vents with electric control
- Aluminium or uPVC systems
- Solar-control or self-cleaning glass
- Can include opening vents
- Slim aluminium bars, more glass
Before you order: points to check
- Some designs project above the roof enough to affect planning on certain houses
- Needs a strong, level kerb or upstand
Do you need permission in Smethwick?
English householder permitted development (Class C) normally covers rooflights that stand no more than 0.15 m proud of the roof plane and stay below the highest part of the roof. Listed buildings need listed building consent, flats have no householder permitted development rights, and an Article 4 direction can remove the rights in some conservation areas.
Building Regulations Approved Document L sets a limiting U-value of 2.2 W/m²K for new or replacement rooflights in existing homes, measured in the horizontal plane; roof windows need 1.4 W/m²K or a Band B energy rating. Replacing a rooflight or roof window can be self-certified by an installer registered with an authorised competent person scheme; otherwise building control approval is needed.
Our planning guide covers each nation in more detail.
Roof lanterns prices in Smethwick
The ranges below are typical for straightforward jobs; your fixed price follows a survey of your roof.
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large or bespoke aluminium lantern | £5,995 – £10,795 | £4,995 – £8,995 |
| Mid-size aluminium lantern (2 × 3 m) Typical | £3,955 – £5,995 | £3,295 – £4,995 |
| Small lantern (1 × 2 m) | £2,995 – £3,955 | £2,495 – £3,295 |
What happens next
- Send the details. Postcode, rough size and a photo of the roof and room.
- Measure and check. A surveyor visits Smethwick, measures and checks structure and access.
- Agree the quote. You approve the specification and price before anything is ordered.
- Fit and make good. We fit, seal, test and finish the reveal, then hand over the paperwork.
Neighbouring towns
Related work in Smethwick
Common questions
Can a lantern go on an existing extension?
Yes, if the flat roof structure can be opened up and trimmed. We check joists and the roof build-up at survey.
How big can a lantern be?
Aluminium systems go to around three by six metres in standard ranges; larger sizes are made to order.
Roof lantern or flat rooflight?
A lantern adds height and sky from all sides; a flat rooflight is lower-profile and cleaner from outside. Our guide compares them in detail.
Can you work alongside my builder in Smethwick?
Yes. On new extensions we fit once the opening and upstand are ready and coordinate dates with your builder.
Is the survey in Smethwick free?
Yes for new installations. Repair visits are charged, and we tell you the price before we book.
